The Dallas Wings are raring to go in the 2026 season with a new dose of enthusiasm and players looking to make an impact on the league. With Azzi Fudd’s addition, the side already broke into the top five starting lineups in the 2026 season and will have a chance to compete for the title. There is one major roadblock to the ‘dream’, though, and that’s Arike Ogunbowale’s immediate availability.
The player is currently playing in the Chinese league and made it to the finals with Sichuan. Although she is leading the side well, her recent foul trouble might keep her in the WCBA longer, while the rest of the team prepares in training camp.
Arike Ogunbowale’s Return In Question
The veteran guard had a tough 2025 season and was playing in the WCBA during the offseason. Representing Sichuan, the player averaged 16.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game in the playoffs, helping the side reach the final and even win two out of three best-of-five series.
But during Game 4 of the series, the player received two technical fouls, resulting in an automatic suspension. Now that the player is out of the decider, it remains uncertain whether she will return to the league or stay with the team for the clutch game.
Quick WCBA Finals update:
— Chinese Women's Hoop Show (@CWHoopShow) April 22, 2026
Sichuan star Arike Ogunbowale picked up two technical fouls in the fourth quarter today, bringing her total to four—triggering an automatic one-game suspension. She’s likely to miss the decisive Game 5.
It’s still unclear whether she’ll remain with the… pic.twitter.com/A6rGngB9d3
The final game will be on April 25, allowing her to make a late return to the action by April 27 at the max. The side will play its first preseason game against the Indiana Fever on April 30, and she could play in that game too.
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It is interesting to note that the Dallas Wings’ first overall pick in the WNBA draft was a sign for an exit decision for Ogunbowale.
GM Praises Arike Ogunbowale For Her ‘Loyalty’
The 2019 draft pick by the Wings’ franchise spent her entire career in the Texas franchise, carrying most of the offensive load for the side. While Paige Bueckers’ arrival did change her game a bit, she is fully committed to giving her 100%to the franchise. And that’s the quality coach Curt Miller lauded while making her re-signing official, signing a two-year, $2.44 million contract.
“We are so excited that Arike has chosen to return to Dallas and build upon her great legacy here. We understand the unique opportunity we have in being able to welcome back our franchise’s all-time leading scorer,” Miller told the media.
Curt Miller on Arike Ogunbowale’s re-signing:
— The Wings Bulletin (@WingsBulletin) April 12, 2026
“We are so excited that Arike has chosen to return to Dallas and build upon her great legacy here. We understand the unique opportunity we have in being able to welcome back our franchise’s all-time leading scorer…
Now, even with her late arrival, the player will be available for the regular season games and will even participate in the pre-season games.